Fishing Report:

Recent warm weather has changed conditions on the lakes over the past week. The warmth as created some of the slushy spots and pools of standing ...more water on the lakes. We had reports of anglers driving snowmobiles and trucks on the lakes, but getting stuck in the slush and standing water is once again a concern out there. With no major cool-down in the forecast over the next week these conditions are likely to remain the same.

Bluegill anglers have had some decent catches on some area lakes. The best catches have come from weedy parts of the lake and in larger, deeper lakes. Waxies have still been the best bait for these fish.

Perch action is improving as these fish are nearing their annual spawning period. They will continue to feed more consistently as we get warmer weather. Look for these fish to start moving out of the depths closer to their spawning areas. Perch anglers have had best success using waxies and minnows.

Still the same story with crappies over the past week. These fish are hanging around in the deep holes and cribs anywhere from the bottom to right under the ice. Electronics are almost a necessity for any serious crappie angler at this time of year. Each lake seems to have its own pattern for feeding times, so finding these crappie is only half the battle. Those anglers who have put some time and effort into it are getting some nice fish. The best method has been jigging with waxies and crappie minnows.

The good thing we can say about March this year is that the weather has been a blessing, but it is only half over. The ice is still good, but as mentioned there is slush and standing water on top. Still a little time to look forward to some good late ice panfishing.